Fin's Fish Guide
The Bonytail (Gila elegans) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 62 cm.
Description
The Bonytail is a minnow (Leuciscidae) from fresh water of the Colorado basin in southwestern North America. The species grows to about 62 cm and has a streamlined, silver-grey body. It has a strikingly thin, pencil-like tail stalk; through dams and introduced fish the species is critically endangered. As a bottom-oriented omnivore it lives in rivers, streams and pools of the arid southwestern North America and eats algae, small invertebrates and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bonytail?
The Bonytail has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Bonytail live?
The Bonytail lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. North America: Mexico, USA
How big does the Bonytail get?
The Bonytail grows to a maximum of about 62 cm.
Is the Bonytail dangerous to humans?
No, the Bonytail is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gila
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Bonytail?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bonytail is one of 12,519 species in the app.